Migrant domestic workers demand 21% wage hike to HK$6,172, reject calls for pay freeze
Domestic workers called for an increase in their Minimum Allowable Wage from HK$5,100 to HK$6,172 at a rally outside the Labour Department on Friday. The Asian Migrants Coordinating Body (AMCB) also called for an increase in the monthly food allowance from HK$1,236 to HK$3,123. Employers must provide free meals or pay the food allowance set […]
Domestic workers in Hong Kong are demanding a 21% wage increase to HK$6,172 per month, rejecting calls for a pay freeze. The Asian Migrants Coordinating Body (AMCB) is pushing for a higher Minimum Allowable Wage, along with a rise in the monthly food allowance from HK$1,236 to HK$3,123. Currently, the Minimum Allowable Wage stands at HK$5,100, a meager 39% increase over 25 years, failing to keep pace with inflation.
The coalition of migrant worker unions argues that domestic workers are essential for providing care services, enabling double-income households. Employer groups have dismissed the wage hike demands, citing potential layoffs. Advocates highlight the irreplaceable nature of domestic workers' services, with some earnings contributing to the local economy.
They also stress the plight of domestic workers, facing job insecurity, long hours, abuse risk due to live-in arrangements, and exploitative recruitment practices.
Written by urgent.news from Hong Kong Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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